Social prescribing is a means for health-care providers to connect patients to a range of nonclinical services in the community in order to improve their health and well-being.
Social prescriptions are sent to the local “Community Connector” who works closely with the client to develop a plan. The Community Connector will help the individual connect to services, supports and programs identified in their health and well-being plan. Participation in activities such as low impact sports, volunteering, arts, gardening, book clubs, and more, all enhance well-being and reduce dependency on medical services.
Initially created in the United Kingdom, many countries are establishing social prescribing as a way to help improve physical, mental and emotional health.
Social Prescribing is growing in Canada and in Saskatchewan. SSM is introducing 12 rural and urban communities to the benefits of social prescribing in action focused on well-being of older adults. Often Age-Friendly Communities offer programs, relationships and encouragement to participants in the social prescribing initiative.
Connecting is the key!
For much more information on social prescribing go to SSM’s Social Prescribing page.
View a short video where physician, community connectors and clients tell about how social prescribing has changed lives: